Farmer Dave is an expert “on all things rat, mouse, bird and cat because not only do we do these amazing dog shows on this stage but we do ‘Pet Of The Day’ which really is all about understanding the amazing job that the exhibitors do with all the animals on show,” he says after hosting the 3pm Dog Breed Showcase in the Pet Pavilion.
Throughout their tenure at the Show, dogs large and small may be privy to a sausage to entice them to leap higher for the high jump competition, or some of the other Show treats that can be found from the many food stalls around the park.
“Though jokes aside, the dogs are fed premium dog food when they get home”, he assures us.
“And then it’s back to work the next day.”
“It’s all about the reward,” he continues, motioning to an event being set up behind him, suitably named Temptation Alley.
All of the activities the dogs do present an opportunity to eat whatever they want. In this scenario, Temptation Alley is a timed obstacle course which the dogs must navigate their way through; the catch is that the course has treats and snacks scattered about to entice them. So if a dog wants a quick bite, they are more than welcome to have one.
So, when dogs are eating, they obviously have to go to the toilet.
“There’s some straw that we’ve set up out the back where we’ve made a beautiful little private area for the dogs,” he says.
“As for number twos? They save that for at home. They’re well trained dogs”.
It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it.
Dog shows run daily from the Pet Pavilion at Sydney Olympic Park. For further information and dog events see the official website, https://www.rasnsw.com.au/sydney-royal-competitions/competitions/dog-show-sydney/
